Most people have grown up being taught how important it is to brush and floss their teeth regularly. However, it is also important for professional teeth cleaning to be a part of your regular dental care regimen. It is recommended that everyone has a professional teeth cleaning at least once or twice a year when going in for their annual dental check-up. However, this depends on the condition of the teeth and gums, and some patients may actually need to have professional cleaning done more frequently. These are some reasons why professional teeth cleaning is so important.

Preventing Cavities 

Cavities develop due to a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque that builds up on the teeth is acidic and it eats away at the enamel which results in the formation of cavities. While regular brushing and flossing does help prevent cavities, this may be not enough to keep tooth decay from occurring. A dentist has special tools he uses during professional teeth cleanings that can remove all plaque from the teeth.

Preventing Tooth Loss 

Those people who have periodontal disease often suffer from tooth loss. Plaque can actually travel down below the gums and destroy the bones of the jaw. This causes the teeth to become loose and they can easily fall out. However, by having regular professional teeth cleaning performed, the plaque is removed and tooth loss is less likely to occur.

Making Teeth Whiter 

Smoking, drinking coffee or tea, consuming caffeinated soda and other drinks and even eating certain foods can cause the teeth to become stained and discolored.However, having a professional teeth cleaning removes these stains and improves the appearance of the teeth. This makes teeth look whiter, brighter and more polished.

Freshening The Breath 

If the teeth are not professionally cleaned, this may leave tiny fragments of bacteria deep in the crevices of the teeth where normal brushing and flossing cannot reach. Bacteria creates unpleasant odors in the mouth that regular brushing and flossing may not get rid of. However, professional teeth cleaning gets rid of the bacteria so that the problem of bad breath is solved (at least temporarily).

Improving The Overall Health  

There are some health conditions that have been linked to having improper dental hygiene. However, you may be able to decrease your the chances of being diagnosed with these diseases if you practice proper dental hygiene and have your teeth professionally cleaned.

Many health insurance companies will pay for you to have one or two professional teeth cleanings each year. Be sure to check with your insurance company to find out the cost of any co-pays when having your teeth professionally cleaned. Click for additional info on dentistry.